The Syrian Coalition’s General Assembly held its 31st meeting in the Coalition’s headquarters in Istanbul, Turkey, on the weekend February, 4-5. The meeting came amid difficult conditions and challenges facing the Syrian revolution and coincided with renewed efforts by the United Nations to reach a political solution in Syria.

The General Assembly discussed the outcome of the 4th round of talks in Geneva which concluded on Friday. Coalition members who were part of the opposition’s negotiating delegation were taking part in the discussion. The Assembly also discussed preparations for the upcoming Astana meeting, including arranging a meeting with the opposition’s delegation to Astana. The meeting stressed the need to stick to the opposition’s demands during the upcoming Astana meeting, most importantly to ensure the Assad regime commits to the cease-fire, releases detainees, and lifts the sieges.

Tabled for discussion were the projects of the Syrian interim government in the liberated areas and the challenges facing it. The conferees, who included head of the Syrian interim government Jawad Abu Hatab, reaffirmed continued support for the interim government’s efforts to provide basic services to all Syrians.

Furthermore, members of the General Assembly discussed the organizational aspects of plans to improve the performance of the Coalition, particularly plans to develop the political program to better respond to developments in the Syrian revolution. Conferees emphasized the interactive approach pursued by the Coalition in reaching out to the various political, civilian, military, and national forces and figures. They also stressed the need to continue to develop such skills and techniques to secure increased regional and international support for the Syrian cause.

The General Assembly reiterated the Syrian Coalition’s commitment to the goals and guidelines of the Syrian revolution. Members of the General Assembly stressed that they will not waive the immense sacrifices the Syrian people are making to regain freedom and dignity as well as build a state based on justice, democracy, and the rule of law. (Source: Syrian Coalition’s Media Department)